During autumn when the days become shorter and the shadows get deeper, there is sense of mystery in the air during the run up to Halloween. It's a time when gothic fashion becomes the ideal sartorial choice for embracing the spirit of the season.
Although historically 'gothic style' means all black clothing, heavy makeup, and dramatic silhouettes. It's little sister aesthetic is something everyone can wear. 'Soft goth' balances muted colours with cozy textures and ethereal accessories perfect for the spooky season.
Whether you're a fan of all black outfits, want to experiment with a new style, or give your existing wardrobe some edge; this is how to create a soft goth capsule wardrobe with outfit ideas and inspiration on how to style them.
What's soft goth aesthetic?
The soft goth aesthetic combines elements of traditional goth with a softer, more whimsical look. It's a style that scales back the intensity of traditional goth fashion to make it more wearable. Soft goth features a muted colour palette, delicate fabrics, interesting textures, dainty jewellery, and subtle makeup.
Soft goth outfits have a dreamy, romantic appearance with subtle feminine touches compared to the more intense style of traditional goth fashion. The soft goth aesthetic is both dark and delicate, blending traditional gothic style with a softer, ethereal twist.
Outfits usually include sheer fabrics, lace blouses, and oversized sweaters paired with long skirts or fitted trousers. Dresses have flowing silhouettes with lace or embroidery details, and footwear that ranges from heavy boots to delicate flats.
Accessories include layering necklaces, floral headpieces, and chokers worn with subtle makeup that combines neutral smokey eyeshadows with dark berry lipstick.
How to Get the Soft Goth Aesthetic
To get the soft goth aesthetic, begin with a muted colour palette. The obvious choice would be to create a monochromatic black and white capsule wardrobe as a base. Put together soft goth outfits using flowering dresses, loose blouses, sheer tops, maxi skirts, and tailored trousers. Footwear should either be chunky boots or classic shoes.
It's the subtle details that add the whimsical, feminine touch that the soft goth aesthetic is known for. Think lace, embroidery, and velvet fabrics as well as accessories, such as layering necklaces, stacking rings, and delicate earrings. Incorporate gothic symbols, like crosses or celestial symbols, to create an overall look that balances darkness and delicacy to become both mysterious and whimsical.
- Trench
- Coat
- Cardigan
- Sleeveless Maxi
- Wrap Dress
- Collared Dress
- Knitted Vest
- Wrap Top
- Collared Shirt
- Maxi Skirt
- Handbag
- Platform Sandals
- Arc Earrings
- Medallion Necklace
- Chevron Ring
This is a capsule wardrobe for the soft goth aesthetic put together using my current wardrobe. This capsule is intended as a guide for creating soft goth outfits using what you already own.
How do you make a soft goth wardrobe?
The key to creating a soft goth wardrobe is striking a balance between gothic and ethereal elements. By carefully selecting clothing, accessories, makeup, and hairstyles that fit this dark yet delicate aesthetic, you can curate a wardrobe that reflects your unique style while staying true to the soft goth style.
Thrift For Unique Pieces
The soft goth aesthetic draws from a wide range of influences and heavily references historical, artistic, and cultural elements. Most notably the intricate and dramatic fashion of the Victorian and Edwardian eras.
As a result, thrifted vintage clothing fits perfectly with the aesthetic. So if you want the soft goth aesthetic and are missing clothes to make an outfit, try thrifting them! It's the best way to find truly unique pieces.
Stick to Neutral Colours
The foundation of any soft goth wardrobe is a muted colour palette. Key colours include black, white, grey, and pastel shades like lavender, sage green, baby pink, and powder blue.
These muted tones create the perfect base for any soft goth outfit—and are incredibly versatile. Make sure to only wear two colours in a single outfit to stay true to the toned-down aesthetic of soft goth style.
Rely on Textures and Layers
Soft goth outfits often feature textured fabrics worn in layers to create a romantic look that is both gothic and whimsical. Use lace details, embroidery, and ruffles to add texture and detail to your outfits. Sheer fabrics, lace blouses, velvet dresses, and oversized sweaters are key pieces, which can be layered to add depth.
This will help you to achieve the delicate yet dramatic appearance of soft goth fashion. While pattern doesn't often feature in gothic outfits, soft check or plaid does pair well with muted shades.
Add Subtle Details
Accessories play a significant role in achieving the desired soft goth aesthetic. Just like with traditional gothic style, gothic symbols like crosses, moons, or skulls feature prominently in the soft goth style.
These can be incorporated into outfits using clothing details or jewellery pieces, which will add drama without overwhelming the finished look. Delicate jewellery featuring celestial symbols are one of the best ways to add a subtle gothic detail to any outfit.
Don't Overlook Makeup
Soft goth makeup is incredibly accessible because it relies on fresh, natural beauty with a hint of colour. It's the perfect blend of sophisticated and edgy, combining the classic goth aesthetic with a softer touch.
Keep makeup simple by using a light foundation or just concealer, a subtle smokey eye, and berry lip tint. Stick to light blush in a natural shade and bronzer in the hollows of your cheekbones to amplify the goth look.